Transient Receptor Potential Cation Channel Subfamily M, Member 2 (TRPM2)

TRPM2 highly expressed in the brain and was implicated by both genetic linkage studies in families and then by case control or trio allelic association studies in the genetic aetiology of bipolar affective disorder . The physiological role of TRPM2 is not well understood. It was shown to be involved in insulin secretion. The protein encoded by this gene is a non-selective calcium-permeable cation channel and is part of the Transient Receptor Potential ion channel super family. The closest relative is the cold and menthol activated TRPM8 ion channel. While TRPM2 is not cold sensitive it is activated by heat. The TRPM2 ion channel is activated by free intracellular ADP-ribose in synergy with free intracellular calcium. ADP-Ribose is produced to by the enzyme PARP in response to oxidative stress and confers susceptibility to cell death.